When you have gaps between your teeth, it can be difficult to smile confidently. But you don’t always need extensive orthodontic or cosmetic treatment to help restore pride in your smile. With tooth bonding in Chapel Hill, NC, you could see an improved smile with just one trip to the dentist. Tooth bonding can be a cost-effective treatment to help fix minor imperfections in your teeth. After examining your bite, your dentist can determine if tooth bonding is the right option for you.

What To Expect at Your Tooth Bonding Appointment

If you are a candidate for tooth bonding, it’s a good idea to know what to expect going into your appointment. The more you understand the process, the better prepared you’ll be to face treatment calmly and comfortably. If you do experience anxiety or fear about your appointment, discuss this with your dentist ahead of time to create a plan that could help reduce the strain of your visit.

Prepping the Teeth

Tooth bonding uses composite materials to shape and form your teeth. This material attaches to your permanent tooth, meaning it needs room to fit comfortably. To make room, your dentist will begin by removing a small layer of your original tooth. Local anesthesia is often used to reduce pain or discomfort during this process. Your dentist will also ensure that your teeth are clean, reducing the chances of developing cavities or other problems if plaque is left behind.

Creating the Bonding

Composite resin is a great material for tooth bonding as it allows your dentist to color-match the material to your natural teeth. This means your new bonding won’t likely appear as a different material, helping your smile stay beautiful and cohesive. While applying the color-matched bonding, your dentist can shape and adjust the material as they go. They’ll work with you to ensure your bite is comfortable before finalizing the bond.

Curing and Polishing

Once you’re happy and comfortable with the fit and feel of the bonding, your dentist will cure the material, helping to create a durable bond that can last years with the right care and oral hygiene. After that, your dentist will polish the material to create a smooth surface that mimics the look of your natural teeth. By prepping the composite resin material in the office, most teeth bonding appointments can be done in one visit.

Do You Have Gaps in Your Teeth?

Gaps between our teeth can leave us self-conscious about our smiles. However, expensive cosmetic and orthodontic treatment isn’t always a viable option. Teeth bonding could help reshape and straighten your teeth without the need for porcelain veneers or braces. If you aren’t confident in your smile, contact Tarheel Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today at (919) 551-8847. We’ll get you scheduled for an initial exam and consultation to see if tooth bonding in Chapel Hill, NC, is the right fit for you. If not, we’ll put together a personalized cosmetic treatment plan to help you feel more confident in your smile.